Giveaway: Two All-Access Passes to NXNE in Toronto [Black Lips, Matt & Kim, No Age, Youth Brigade, More]

Why is Austinist giving away tickets to Toronto's North by North East festival, you ask? Well, if you're paying close attention, you already know that the festival -- now in its 29th year -- has enough Austin in it to justify our excitement. Not only have they created a sustainable festival that covers music, film and conferences patterned after our own love-child SXSW, they also work hard each year to represent Texas well in their lineup.

This year, Austin's Colin Gilmore, Bryce Clifford, Built By Snow, Ume and Gurf Morlix are all going to perform during Toronto's big week. Gilmore, the son of Texas legend Jimmie Dale Gilmore, will be bringing his 'West Texas Nick Lowe' vibe to Canada, supporting his most recent release, Black Wine. There's also a chance he'll perform his tune "The Way We Are", which appears on the Flatlanders' new record, Hill and Valleys. Clifford, who splits his time between Austin and Ontario, specializes in post-punk Americana blues. His last record was a live performance, but he's been in the studio working on a new record, which we expect to hear some of in Toronto. With guest performances by Kim Deschamps (Cowboy Junkies) and Thomas Vanderbrook, there's no doubt it will be one to remember. Built by Snow released their keys-heavy LP Mega earlier this year, and their set will be a dance party to remember - be on the lookout for new songs.

We love Ume, and there's little doubt that their pummeling set of Blonde Redhead meets Sonic Youth style tunes will wow audiences at NXNE. Their recent release, Sunshower, is a wall of sound assault on the senses, showcasing Lauren Larson's sweet screams and notable guitar work. This band continues to improve on their live set, and we're pretty sure we'll have to wear earplugs here in Austin to prepare for their Toronto debut. Morlix will be performing songs from his most recent release, Last Exit to Happyland.

So what's this all about? Well, Austinist would love to send you to Toronto to support our local artists and enjoy the five day festival. We're offering a chance to win two all-access passes (valued at $250 each) good for the entire festival, on us. Sure, you've got to find your own way to Toronto, but hey -- isn't it time to make a little room for a summer vacation somewhere cool (literally and figuratively)? Enter the form below for your chance to win. The winner will be announced the first week of June.

This contest is closed.